October 18, (THEWILL) — The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed as false and malicious the reports linking the recent arrest of some military officers to an alleged coup attempt, describing the claims as an attempt to incite fear and tension in the country.
According to reports by Sahara Reporters, 16 officers, including a brigadier general and a colonel, were arrested in late September over alleged secret meetings and expressions of dissatisfaction with the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
However, in a statement signed on Saturday by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ clarified that the ongoing investigation involving the officers had nothing to do with any coup plot.
Gusau also refuted claims that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary parade was connected to any alleged attempt to overthrow the government.
He explained that the parade was called off because President Tinubu was attending a high-level bilateral meeting abroad, and to allow the armed forces to sustain momentum in ongoing operations against insecurity.
“The attention of the Defence Headquarters has been drawn to a false and misleading report by an online publication insinuating that the cancellation of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary was linked to an alleged attempted military coup,” the statement read.
It added, “The report also made spurious references to the recent DHQ press release announcing the arrest of sixteen officers currently under investigation for professional misconduct.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to categorically state that these claims are entirely false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.”
Gusau explained that the investigation into the 16 officers is a routine internal disciplinary process, aimed at maintaining professionalism and accountability within the ranks.
He said an investigative panel has been constituted, and its findings will be made public in due course.
He reaffirmed that the Armed Forces remain loyal to the Constitution and the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and are fully committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain firmly loyal to the Constitution and the Federal Government under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief. Democracy is forever,” the statement added.
The DHQ also urged Nigerians to disregard false reports and continue supporting the military and other security agencies in their efforts to ensure peace and stability across the country.
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